How to Winterize My Lawn Mower

What does it mean to winterize my lawn mower?

Harsh winter temperatures can be hard on your lawn mower and the fluids in it. Winterizing your mower is when you prepare it for the colder weather to ensure the longevity of the equipment. Our expert technicians at Koenig Equipment recommend the following simple steps to winterize your lawn and garden equipment.

Why is it important to winterize my lawn mower?

If you own a lawn mower, you know how important it is to take proper care of it so it lasts longer and operates properly. Part of taking proper care of your lawn mower is winterizing it during the off-season when you are not using it. By taking the time to properly prepare your lawn mower for winter, you will ensure it is ready to run when spring returns.

8 steps to ensure my lawn mower has been winterized

1. Remove or stabilize the fuel.

The components of gasoline can separate when left sitting too long, causing the fuel to be unusable, leaving unwanted deposits in fuel system components, and damaging your equipment. Drain as much gas as possible, and then start your mower or tractor, allowing it to run dry.

2. Remove the battery.

If you own a lawn tractor or battery-powered mower, remove the battery and clean it well. Store your battery in a cool, dry place that is away from any flammable substances or heat sources.

For maximum battery life, connect stored batteries to a smart trickle charger to maintain proper levels all winter. Once next spring rolls around, re-install the battery in the machine and check all connections.

3. Replace or clean filters.

Clean or replace air filters and fuel filters. Be sure to check the owner’s manual for specific maintenance instructions.

4. Change the oil.

Drain the oil and replace it with the recommended type/weight.

5. Scrape the mower deck.

Grass clippings hold moisture and can cause rust, so it is important to remove any debris. Prevent any possibility of accidentally starting the mower by removing the spark plug. Remove the mower blades and scrape away any grass clippings using a putty knife, and then apply a coating of lubricant such as WD-40.

6. Sharpen the mower blades.

The off-season is the perfect time to sharpen your blades, so they are ready to go in the spring. Drop them off at your local Koenig store if you would like us to take care of that for you. If you notice any chips, cracks, or bends in the blades, however, it’s time to replace them.

7. Clean and lubricate the mower.

Use a damp cloth to clean the engine housing, wheels, and the top of the mower deck. Then use an old towel to dry. Lubricate the exposed cable-movement pivot points with a spray lubricant.

8. Store your equipment.

Store your lawn tractor or mower indoors if possible or cover with a tarp if it is outside. If it looks like mice may be a problem, placing pet-safe baits under your equipment will help to deter mice from chewing on wiring.

How to properly store a lawn mower through the winter

Once you’ve prepared your lawn mower for the winter, it is important to store it properly as well. Ideally your lawn mower should be stored in a dry protected place such as a garage or garden shed where it is out of the winter weather. It is also important to make sure it is not next to a furnace, water heater, or space heater.

Can my tractor be used as a snow plow in the winter?

If you are in an area that usually receives large amounts of snow, you can utilize your lawn tractor to remove snow from your property. With the addition of a snowplow or blade attachment for the front of your lawn tractor, you can ditch the shoveling and move snow easily!

Where can my lawn mower be professionally inspected and serviced?

Schedule a full inspection with a Koenig Equipment Certified Technician before storing your equipment for the winter so you are ready to go in the spring!